Key Points:
- Bill Gates will leave less than 1% of his fortune to his children.
- He wants them to succeed on their own, not rely on his wealth.
- Most of his money will go to charity through the Gates Foundation.
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has left many people surprised after revealing how much money his children will get when he dies. Despite being one of the richest people in the world, Gates has decided to give his three children less than 1% of his massive fortune.
In a new interview on the podcast Figuring Out with Raj Shamani, the 69-year-old businessman shared the details. He explained that while his children had a great life and education, he believes giving them too much money would not help them. Instead, he wants them to earn their own success.
Gates is currently worth over $102 billion, according to Forbes’ 2025 World’s Billionaire List. That means even less than 1% of his wealth is still a huge amount—more than $1 billion each for his three children: Jennifer, 28; Rory, 25; and Phoebe, 22.
“It’s Not a Dynasty,” Says Gates
Gates made it clear that he doesn’t expect his kids to take over Microsoft or become business giants like him. “It’s not a dynasty. I’m not asking them to run Microsoft,” he said.
He wants them to build their own careers, make their own money, and create their own legacies. He believes that children of rich parents can still find success without being handed everything.
“I want to give them a chance to have their own earnings and success,” he added.
Gates Made His Plans Clear to His Kids
When asked if his children ever felt sad about not inheriting the full fortune, Gates said he explained things clearly to them from early on.
“You don’t want your kids to ever feel unsure about your love or support,” he said. He believes the best way to show love is by being honest and giving them equal chances in life.
Gates said he taught his children early that the money would go to help others. That way, they understood why he made that choice.
Most of His Fortune Will Help the World
For years, Bill Gates has promised to give away almost all of his money. He plans to spend his fortune on helping people in need across the world through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
In 2024, he told CNN that he is currently giving away $9 billion each year. He also said that in about 20 years, he hopes to no longer be one of the richest people on Earth.
“I have more than enough money for myself,” he said. “I’ll be proud when I’m no longer on the rich list.”
Gates and his ex-wife Melinda started the foundation in 2000. Their mission is to reduce suffering and improve lives across the world. In a recent post, he said, “I have an obligation to return my resources to society.”
